Sepp Blatter to Seek Another Term as FIFA President Amid Criticism from Dutch FA
At 78, Sepp Blatter has confirmed his intention to stand for re-election as FIFA president, a position he has held since 1998. The Swiss football administrator’s announcement to continue leading world football until at least 2019 has sparked strong reactions, notably from the Dutch Football Association (KNVB).
The day after Blatter officially declared his candidacy for the 2015 FIFA presidential election, KNVB president Michael van Praag expressed his disappointment and concern. “It’s such a shame that Michel Platini didn’t run,” van Praag said. “He was the only one who could have prevented Blatter from being re-elected.”
Van Praag warned that Blatter’s likely new term would be detrimental to the sport. “Now the way is clear for a new term and that’s really not good for football,” he added.
The KNVB has been one of FIFA’s most vocal critics over recent years, often questioning Blatter’s leadership style and governance of the global game. The Dutch association has publicly stated that it will not support Blatter’s re-election bid.
Blatter’s continued candidacy comes at a time when FIFA faces mounting scrutiny over governance and corruption allegations, putting his long-standing leadership under a cloud of controversy.
The upcoming election promises to be a pivotal moment for FIFA as football’s global governing body grapples with calls for reform and transparency.
